Today, physical therapists play an important role in the field of sleep, both in clinical practice and research.
In practice, they promote community education by raising awareness about the importance of sleep and its functions, as well as the negative effects of sleep deprivation. They also provide guidance on posture and sleep hygiene measures that support estful sleep and overall health.
Additionally, physical therapists can identify and help manage both non-respiratory disorders (such as insomnia or restless legs syndrome) and respiratory disorders.
Among their various roles, their most recognized intervention is in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Because of their extensive knowledge of respiratory physiology and pathophysiology, along with their expertise in using positive airway pressure (PAP) devices and related interfaces, physical therapists are highly qualified to monitor PAP therapy in the short, medium, and long term. They select the most appropriate device and mask, instruct and adapt patients to therapy, ensure comfort and adherence, and address any issues that may arise during the adaptation process.
A key tool that supports physical therapists in monitoring patients during PAP adaptation is nighttime oximetry. By analyzing the oxygen desaturation index, they can determine whether therapy has successfully corrected oxygen levels during the night.
In general, physical therapists working in sleep medicine are trained in respiratory physical therapy and have specialized knowledge in sleep disorders.
By Moara Rocha – Physical Therapist
CREFITO [Brazil's Federal Council of Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy]: 91773-F
Postgraduate in sleep - Albert Einstein Israelite Hospital
Instagram: @rochamoara
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The diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea is extremely important. It can be carried out through polysomnography or the Biologix Sleep Test® a multimodal polysomnography. This test can be performed at home, is simple, practical, effective, and does not require spending the night at a sleep lab.
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